The clinic, which has called Superior home since 1989, was one of the first of its kind nationwide.

With a staff of more than 70, the clinic will have more than double the examining rooms, and play host to a number of new specialty VA services, including audiology and eye care, "and more important than the services they provide, it reduces cost, it improves access to veterans," said State Senator Bob Jauch, of Poplar, "and it's taught a lesson to the Veteran's Administration that satellite outpatient clinics are the best way to improve access to America's Veterans."

"It sends a message that, in a time of gridlock and partisanship, there's some things we can agree on," said Minnesota 8th District Congressman Rick Nolan, who also attended the meeting.

Congressman Nolan says the community support, and donations from various Northland businesses, is an example of the region's dedication to its growing veteran population.

"If we can send them overseas, then by God, we should be putting together all the health and medical services that we need," said Rep. Nolan.

For U.S. Army 7th Infantry and Platoon Leader John Stojevich, who was overseas the day the Korean War ended, what the clinic means is a promise that his services are not forgotten.

"It saves a trip to Minneapolis, and (fighting) the traffic and everything else down there—and this is only about 10 miles from my home," Stojevich said beaming.

...services that are also closing the health gap for vets at VA Clinics in Hayward, Rice Lake, and Brainerd.

The Twin Ports VA Clinic is also now connected to health specialists nationwide, through a tech service called V–Tell, further reducing the need for veterans to travel to Minneapolis.